Labor of Love Blood Drives

Newschannel 3 is sponsoring the annual Labor of Love Blood Drives throughout Hampton Roads in an effort to help boost blood donations over the upcoming holiday weekend. All presenting Labor of Love blood donors will receive a FREE t-shirt, while supplies last and a chance to win Washington/San Francisco football tickets with a VIP parking pass.

Summer is a difficult time for blood collection. More donors are vacationing and high school and college students are on summer break. The Red Cross reminds eligible donors to keep blood and platelet donation on their to-do lists, even as Labor Day approaches and families prepare for back-to-school activities. Blood donations can be made every 56 days, so donors who gave in the first half of the summer may be eligible to give again now.

How to Donate Blood
Simply call 1-800-RED CROSS (1-800-733-2767) or visit redcrossblood.org to make an appointment or for more information. All blood types are needed to ensure a reliable supply for patients. A blood donor card or driver’s license, or two other forms of identification are required at check-in. Individuals who are 17 years of age (16 with parental permission in some states), weigh at least 110 pounds and are in generally good health may be eligible to donate blood. High school students and other donors 18 years of age and younger also have to meet certain height and weight requirements.

About the American Red Cross
The American Red Cross shelters, feeds and provides emotional support to victims of disasters; supplies about 40 percent of the nation's blood; teaches skills that save lives; provides international humanitarian aid; and supports military members and their families. The Red Cross is a not-for-profit organization that depends on volunteers and the generosity of the American public to perform its mission. For more information, please visit redcross.org or visit us on Twitter at @RedCross.